# light up

> English word · Verb

## Definitions
1. To illuminate, to bring light to something, to brighten.
2. To start to emit light; to become activated as a light source.
3. To show an increase in activity or a brightening of mood.
4. To ignite.
5. To light a cigarette, pipe, etc.
6. To light a cigarette, pipe, etc. for (someone).
7. To make happy.
8. To introduce (someone to something), to make someone aware of or interested in something; turn on.
9. To open fire on a target or group of targets, especially with rockets, a flamethrower, etc.
10. To shock (someone) with a stun gun.
11. To activate the emergency sirens on a police vehicle in order to pull someone over.

## Etymology
Phrasal verb from light (“to make bright, ignite”, verb) + up (“to a higher degree”, adverb).

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/light-up